local activism, global perspective, and “do some rad shit every day”: in conversation with eric davies

2026

Local Activism, Global Perspective, and “Do Some Rad Shit Every Day”: In Conversation with Eric Davies

North Devon surf legend Eric Davies discusses local coastal protection, Saunton beach cable routing, and why age is just a number when keeping stoked.

16 August 2026 3 min read By admin

“Think global, act local. What we do on the land directly affects the ocean – it’s time for the whole world to behave.” – Eric Davies

A multi-decade surfing champion, cancer survivor, and North Devon surfing legend, Eric Davies – affectionately known as “The Scottish Beast” – is the living definition of staying fit, stoked, and engaged into retirement. Having spent decades riding waves across the globe and at home on Saunton Sands, Eric brings a fiery, practical perspective to ocean protection and local environmental stewardship.

We caught up with Eric to talk about protecting North Devon’s coastlines, holding big surf brands accountable, and why we should all be doing something rad every single day.

Snapshot Profile

Name: Eric Davies
Local Break: Saunton Sands, North Devon, UK
Favorite Global Breaks: Nosara (Costa Rica) & Freights (Barbados)
Key Achievements: Multi-decade UK surf champion, subject of the award-winning short film Keep On Keeping On
Motto: “Do some rad shit every day!”

The Interview

Why is conserving and protecting the ocean so personal to you?

Eric: What we do on the land directly affects the ocean – it’s time for the whole world to behave.

I’m thinking global, yet acting local. Right now, I’m heavily involved as a local activist fighting against the proposed wind farm cable route that is set to run right through Saunton Beach, our sand dunes, and the local biosphere. I’m not anti-wind farms or green energy – I run a solar setup myself – I’m just anti the cheap-and-nasty route chosen for this cable that causes maximum disruption and ecological damage to our coast.

What does the surfing industry specifically need to do better?

Eric: Surfing brands need to work directly with environmental organisations like Surfers Against Sewage (SAS).

Patagonia leads the way globally, and it’s great to see UK brands like Finisterre following closely in those footsteps. But it’s time for the rest of the “big” surf brands to step up and take real responsibility too.

What spots, books, and resources inspire you?

Eric:

Favorite Waves: Nosara in Costa Rica – great waves and I’ve never seen it flat in over 20 years. Also, Freights in Barbados: super fun waves, great vibe, never too crowded, free parking, and no car park hassle (just don’t tell everyone!).
Essential Reading: Let My People Go Surfing by Yvon Chouinard (founder of Patagonia). It’s an inspirational book and a great guide for living and running a values-first life.

Final Thought

Eric: “Do some rad shit every day!”

Be sure to check out the award-winning short film about Eric’s life and recovery, Keep On Keeping On (winner of Shortie of the Year at the London Surf Film Festival), or catch his story on The UK Surf Show (Episode 121: “The Scottish Beast”).